SR-22: 3 things you should know

What to expect when a judge orders you to carry an SR-22 filing

After taking to the roads as a licensed driver, it took mere months to get my first speeding ticket.

I remember well the sinking feeling as I anticipated the impact of the ticket and my parents’ reactions. It turned out that the latter was worse than the former … and neither were all that bad.

The thing is, few things in life are really permanent. And just like my speeding ticket, an SR-22 likely won’t have lasting effects, either.

Here’s what to know and expect while you have one.

1. What is a SR-22 really?

While many refer to “SR-22 insurance,” an SR-22 is actually just a certificate your car insurer files with your state to vouch for you. Basically, it verifies you have coverage. You only need an SR-22 if a judge says you do—this can happen after certain violations, or after a succession of them.

If you’re required to carry an SR-22 and you already have insurance, you’ll just need to add it to your policy. If you’re not insured, you’ll quote an auto policy and an SR-22.

2. How much is a SR-22?

Having an SR-22 filing might cost you a little extra (again, temporarily):

There’s a fee to file it, generally around $25. If you don’t have insurance, the fee is included in your Progressive quote.

Your insurance rate might go up if you need the SR-22 because of a moving violation or accident.

Certain states require you to pay in full when you have insurance that includes an SR-22 filing.

3. How long is a SR-22 required?

In three years—give or take, depending on your state—you won’t need your SR-22. At that point, call your insurer and ask to have the filing removed from your policy.

Three years is also how long it takes, generally, to clear your driving record. So, any violations that triggered your needing an SR-22 have cleared from your record, too.

In the meantime, keep your head up, know we’ve all been there, and remember that, in time, this will become “that one time when …” (just like my ticket did).